RED CAPS 45 



shire and Cumberland. Its exact origin is unknown. Redcaps 

 were called by different names in different localities, such as Cop- 

 heads, Corals, Rosetops, Redheads, Derbyshire Redcaps and 

 Yorkshire Everlayers. 



The colors of the Redcaps are red, brown and black, the red a 

 mahogany tint, and the black a bluish black. Each body feather 

 ends with a black spangle, shaped like a half-moon, in which re- 

 spect they resemble the Hamburgs. They have a large rose comb, 

 terminating in the rear in a well-developed, straight spike. The 

 cock, especially, is a very handsome bird. The hens lay large-size 

 white-shelled eggs and are generally prolific. The standard 

 weights call for 7^ pounds for cocks, 6 pounds for hens and cock- 

 erels, and 5 pounds for pullets. 



Of late years, probably due to the improvement and increased 

 popularity of some other breeds, the Redcaps have lost caste, 

 notwithstanding their many useful, practical qualities. In habit 

 they are alert, given to roaming, and somewhat wild unless 

 thoughtfully managed. Their flesh is light and of a good flavor, 

 though not so rich as some of the meat varieties. 



